Discovering the Authentic Flavors of King Dumplings
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Lower East Side, King Dumplings at 74 Hester St, New York, NY 10002, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional culinary craftsmanship. In a city defined by its relentless pace and ever-changing food landscape, this establishment offers a grounded, comforting experience that centers on the art of the handmade dumpling. Visitors stepping into this space are immediately greeted by the inviting aroma of seasoned fillings and freshly steamed dough, a sensory prelude to a meal that prioritizes quality and consistency above all else.
The philosophy here is refreshingly straightforward: focus on the fundamentals of flavor and texture. By honoring time-tested techniques, the kitchen team ensures that every piece served reflects a dedication to the craft. Whether you are a local resident seeking a reliable neighborhood staple or a curious traveler exploring the diverse culinary tapestry of New York City, King Dumplings provides an accessible entry point into a style of cooking that is both humble and deeply satisfying. It is a place where the focus remains squarely on the plate, allowing the ingredients to speak for themselves in an unpretentious setting.
What Makes King Dumplings a Local Favorite
Commitment to Handcrafted Quality: Every dumpling is prepared with careful attention to detail, ensuring that the dough maintains the perfect balance between elasticity and tenderness, while the fillings are seasoned to highlight their natural profiles.
A Cultural Landmark in the Lower East Side: Located on historic Hester Street, the restaurant serves as a bridge between the neighborhood's rich immigrant history and its modern identity, offering a dining experience that feels deeply connected to the local community.
Consistency and Reliability: In an industry often prone to volatility, King Dumplings has built a reputation for providing a dependable meal, making it a go-to destination for those who value culinary stability and honest preparation.
An Accessible Culinary Experience: The menu is designed to be approachable for all, inviting diners to explore a variety of flavor combinations that celebrate the versatility of the dumpling as a global comfort food.
The appeal of King Dumplings lies not in elaborate presentation or complex fusion concepts, but in the quiet confidence of a well-executed dish. By maintaining a clear vision and respecting the traditions that define this category of cuisine, the restaurant has carved out a meaningful space for itself within the competitive New York food scene. It is a reminder that sometimes the most memorable meals are those that embrace simplicity and focus on the essential elements of good cooking.
As you navigate the bustling streets of the Lower East Side, a stop at 74 Hester St offers more than just a quick bite; it offers a moment of connection to a culinary tradition that has sustained generations. Whether you are stopping by for a casual lunch or a late-afternoon snack, the experience is defined by a sense of warmth and a commitment to serving food that is prepared with care. King Dumplings remains a steady presence, inviting everyone to pull up a chair and enjoy the timeless pleasure of a perfectly crafted dumpling.
Ultimately, the success of such an establishment is measured by the satisfaction of those who return time and again. It is the subtle nuances—the precise seasoning of the meat, the freshness of the vegetables, and the texture of the wrapper—that elevate the experience from merely functional to truly enjoyable. For those who appreciate the intersection of history, community, and culinary integrity, King Dumplings stands as a noteworthy destination in the heart of New York City, continuing to serve its patrons with the same dedication that has defined its presence on Hester Street for years.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in
Highlights
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Counter service
Table service
Amenities
Restroom
Atmosphere
Casual
Lively
Trendy
Crowd
College students
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Cash-only
Parking
Free street parking
Paid street parking
Usually difficult to find a space
Menus
Fried Dumplings
Chive & Pork (10pcs)$3.00
Fried Buns
Pork Fried Buns (4pcs)$2.50
Boiled Dumplings
Chive & Pork (10pcs)
Cabbage & Pork (10pcs)
Chicken (10pcs)
Vegetable (10pcs)
Shrimp &Pork (10pcs)
Beef (10pcs)
Sesame Pancakes Sandwiches
Sesame Pancake$1.50
Sesame Pancake W. Egg$3.00
Sesame Pancake W. Vegetable$2.75
Sesame Pancake W. Spicy Cabbage$2.75
Sesame Pancake W. Roast Pork$3.50
Sesame Pancake W. Beef$3.50
Sesame Pancake W. Peking Duck$3.50
Sesame Pancake W. Chicken$3.50
Special Noodle & Nood
Yellow Noodle W. Peanut Sauce$2.50
Vegetable Noodle Soup$4.00
Fish Ball Noodle Soup$5.00
Chicken Noodle Soup$6.00
Pork Wonton Noodle Soup$6.00
Shrimp & Pork Wonton Noodle Soup$6.50
Beef Stew Noodle Soup$6.00
Beef Noodle Soup$7.00
Roast Duck Noodle Soup$6.50
Dumplings Noodle Soup
Chive & Pork Dumplings Noodle Soup$5.00
Cabbage & Pork Dumplings Noodle Soup$5.00
Chicken Dumplings Noodle Soup$6.00
Beef Dumplings Noodle Soup$6.00
Vegetable Dumplings Noodle Soup$6.00
Shrimp & Pork Dumplings Noodle Soup$6.00
Tasty Soups
Hot & Sour Soup
Wonton Soup
Fuzhou Wonton Soup
Shrimp & Pork Wonton Soup
Fish Ball Soup
Drinks
Bottle Water$1.00
Soda$1.00
Green Tea$1.50
Photos
Reviews King Dumplings
Andy Liu
30-05-2026
Rating: 7.5/10
Date Last Visited: 1/24/2026
I ordered the Pork and Chive fried dumplings ($4.50). It came with 10 pieces and tasted amazing. The dumplings are crispy and the filling is a bit juicy and flavorful. For under $5, this is an amazing deal. The place is hidden away in Chinatown, but it’s worth making the trek there for some cheap yet solid dumplings. This place is cash only, so make sure you bring some extra cash with you. Overall, I would recommend this place if you want some cheap dumplings.
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Fried Pork and Chive Dumplings
Seating type
Indoor dining area
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Vegetarian menu or section, Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Parking space
Difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking, Paid street parking
N. o N
30-05-2026
Fantastic food spot with great options. Can get crowded and loud when there’s a lot of order, but for the prices, you can see why. I think they took away some of their menu items (rip scallion pancakes 😢) but their dumplings are still great. … More
Tamiko Ramirez
30-05-2026
I heard about this restaurant from Instagram. I absolutely love dumplings and the primary reason I went to this specific restaurant was the price. $4.00 for 10 fried pork and chive dumplings. You absolutely can’t beat that price and the … More
John Y
30-05-2026
We went on a Monday at 2:30 and no lines. Small little spot on the corner. Cash only. You can see the mound of dumpling filling and the ladies making dumplings in front of you. Pork and chives dumplings are amazing. These dumplings are hot … More
Lori
30-05-2026
A no-frills, order at the counter eatery in Chinatown that has some of the best (and cheapest) dumplings you'll find in the area! They're best known for their pan-fried Pork & Chive dumplings, which are priced at a mere $4.50 for 10. Make … More
Joseph Sena
30-05-2026
Fantastic pork and chive dumplings, wonton and sweet & sour were also good. Took about 5 minutes to make my order. Will come back
Order type
Take out
Meal type
Dinner
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 3
Group size
3-4 people
Wait time
No wait
Joyce Go
30-05-2026
Super cheap and good. Pork and chive dumplings were fantastic. Chicken dumplings were good as well
Meal type
Dinner
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Reservation
Walk-ins only
Noise level
Moderate noise
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Counter seating
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Vegetarian menu or section
Authentically Alyson
30-05-2026
King Dumplings NYC is a hidden gem that definitely has its highs and lows, but overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone craving some comforting Asian cuisine with a dash of adventure.
Let’s start with the stars of the show: pork fried dumplings. These little guys are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. I could honestly eat them every day and never get bored. A must-order for sure – they’re worth the trip alone!
Then there’s the sesame pancake, which is an absolute winner. Flaky, savory, and just the right amount of crunch. It’s the kind of snack that makes you smile after every bite. Honestly, I was tempted to order three more to go.
The steamed chicken dumplings were pretty good, but I couldn’t help feeling like they were missing that special something. They were tender and well-made, but maybe a little more seasoning could elevate them to the next level.
Now, the hot and sour soup — sigh. It was the one big disappointment. It was watery and lacked the bold, spicy kick you expect from a classic hot and sour. It didn’t pack much of a punch, which was a bit of a letdown.
All in all, King Dumplings NYC has some truly delicious offerings, but there’s room for improvement in the soup department. Still, the dumplings alone make it worth a visit. If you’re craving something hearty, satisfying, and fun, this place is a keeper. I’ll definitely be back for more dumplings – I just might skip the soup next time!
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 4
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 2
Recommended dishes
Fried Pork and Chive Dumplings, Boiled Dumplings, Pancake, Sauce, Pork and Chive Fried Dumplings
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian options
There are several vegetarian options. Vegetable Dumplings 🥟
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Paid street parking
Wheelchair accessibility
Very small. Compact restaurant.
Jose Martinez
30-05-2026
Who said you can't eat cheap in NYC? King Dumplings in Chinatown proves that myth completely wrong. This place is legendary for a reason. The dumplings are absolutely bomb, fresh, flavorful, and unbelievably affordable. It's one of those spots where you eat, look at the price, and honestly do a double take.
That's how good they are: I literally drive 3 hours every now and then just to buy their frozen dumplings and stock my freezer at home. Totally worth it. They cook perfectly and taste just as amazing later.
Don't skip the sesame sandwich either, it's simple, savory, and packed with flavor. No frills, no hype décor, just incredible food at unbeatable prices. This is a must-stop if you’re in Chinatown, and proof that NYC still has amazing hidden gems if you know where to look. 🥟🔥
Order type
Take out
Meal type
Dinner
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 3
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Wait time
Up to 10 min
Florence Wen
30-05-2026
One of my favorite spots for dumplings in NYC. We used to frequent their old location and thought they closed down but was glad to hear that they just moved a few blocks away. This dumpling spot has very affordable and delicious dumplings, which you can get fried or boiled. You can also get pan fried buns, sandwiches, and noodles here.
They are cash only so make sure that you have some cash with you when you get here. There is an ATM machine in the store but it’s better to get cash from a nearby bank before coming here. There is limited seating here but most people get their order as take out so I can usually find a seat here. There is no AC or fan so it is pretty warm and stuff in here during the summer time.
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 5
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 2
Reservation
Walk-ins only
Seating type
Indoor dining area
Parking space
Difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking
Sonia Russi
30-05-2026
The pork and chive dumplings were definitely amazing and fresh. I had both friend and boiled. The dumpling sauce(darker color sauce) they provide on the tables is a must to pour over. It is cash only. During the time I went, the fried ones were $4.50 and the boiled ones were $5. Both contain 10 dumplings. There is minimum sitting and it is first come first serve but there are areas outside around the building to find a seat. Across the street there are a few tables to sit at that look like a public seating area. I highly recommend this place and I have seen this place go viral on social media after my visit but hoping they stay at a reasonable price.
Order type
Dine in
Price per person
$1–10
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Fried Pork and Chive Dumplings, Boiled Dumplings
Wait time
No wait
Denaya Karenzi
30-05-2026
CASH ONLY PLACE
But there is an atm tho! … More
Denaya Karenzi
30-05-2026
CASH ONLY PLACE
But there is an atm tho!
Tried the fried dumplings and it was so good! Not the crispy deep fried dumplings, rather a soft steamed with crispy edges. Served hot and fast. We also got their duck noodle but honestly the broth taste so pork-y.
The ambience is pretty nice, authentic Chinese lowkey humble resto with lots of stickers on the wall.
The frozen dumplings (to take home) are far more affordable!
Order type
Dine in
Food: 5
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Recommended dishes
Fried Pork and Chive Dumplings, Dumpling Noodle Soup
Group size
2 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area
James, Food Critic
30-05-2026
Best value dumplings in the entire United Stated. An order of ten fried dumplings was $4.50 and a ten piece wanton soup was $3. The food was so good, especially for the price. The food also came out relatively quickly. While seating was … More
Maceo Berg
30-05-2026
This is probably my fifth time here but I’m finally leaving a review if this is what you want it’s the perfect restaurant. If it’s not what you want don’t come here. If half the menu is not available that’s what you walked into, but the … More
Mohammad Mazhar Hussain
30-05-2026
Having heard rave reviews, I finally made my way to King Dumplings, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots for authentic, affordable dumplings in NYC. I was delighted to find they'd simply moved a few blocks from their old location, … More
Sandy P
30-05-2026
Delicious and juicy fried pork and chives dumplings. 10 pieces for only $4.50 (such an affordable and filling lunch)! I like drizzling the dumplings with white vinegar, soy sauce and sriracha, then close the box and shake it all up. A nice spot in Chinatown to sit down for a quick meal and you don’t have to pay tips. More
Angela
30-05-2026
This is one of your classic really cheap dumpling spots in nyc Chinatown. You can get lots of dumplings for really cheap here, and the dumplings are good for the price. Like a lot of places in Chinatown it’s cash only with an atm. The … More
Shalin Luitel
30-05-2026
Their $3 pork buns are mind blowing and they also have some seating arrangements too. It was not that packed compared to other places nearby. A hidden gem for sure!!! More
Mia Huynh
30-05-2026
I came here for a quick bite and it's a great cozy and affordable spot in Chinatown for some comforting food! I got their pork and chive dumplings (pan-fried is $4.50 for 10!), their pan-fried buns, and their sesame pancake with duck. … More
Andy Liu
30-05-2026
Rating: 7.5/10
Date Last Visited: 1/24/2026 … More
Jacob Cohen
30-05-2026
Very budget friendly dumpling spot. I got pork wonton noodle soup for $7 my brother got beef stew noodles for I think $8 both came with a large bowl of brother and noodle mine had like 10 wontons, greens, and a large egg In it. The broth … More
Reviews King Dumplings